Algeria take on Kenya as moment of truth awaits

With qualification on the line, a defeat to forget, and an opponent with nothing to lose, Algeria square off against Kenya in a decisive match that determines their future at the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations 2026. 

Meanwhile, their opponents - Harambee Starlets of Kenya hope to finish the group stages on a high note when they come into this encounter on Monday at the Rabat Olympic Stadium in Morocco. 

The 1-0 defeat against the hosts in the previous match has left its mark on the Algerian camp. In the aftermath of this setback, the Algerians were visibly shaken. The Fennecs were left reeling and rather distraught with the result. 

“The team reacted very badly and didn't get over the defeat, which is perfectly understandable. A top-level player can't accept losing easily,” Farid Benstiti said at a press conference. “We had a bad night, but now all our attention is focused on Kenya.” 

The Algerian coach, however, refuses to let his team doubt their identity. Since his arrival, Algeria have developed a structured and ambitious style of football, which they hope to rediscover at the most crucial moment of the group stages.

Returning to the fundamentals

For Roselène Khezami, the solution is simple - return to the principles that have helped the team progress in the last one year. 

“We must maintain continuity with what we've been doing since the beginning with the coach. We know our system of play, we know our strengths. We simply need to put all of that into practice on the pitch,” explains the Algerian player. Benstiti is particularly expecting greater efficiency in both penalty areas.

“We'll have to avoid any unpleasant surprises, limit our mistakes, and be better in Kenya's defensive zone. That's where the match can be won,” summarizes the French coach.

Aware of what's at stake, Algeria wants to transform their frustration into positive energy to secure qualification, which is still within its grasp.

Kenya are without an inferiority complex

On the other side, Kenya is not approaching this match as a designated victim. After defeats in their first two matches; 4-0 against Morocco and 1-0 against Senegal, the Harambee Starlets through their coach Beldine Odemba, insists that her team remains fully motivated.

“The preparation went very well and all the players are ready,” affirms the Kenyan coach. "We are improving with each match and we want to show that we have taken another step forward.” The objective is clear - to conclude this campaign with a benchmark performance.

“We are always positive. We want to finish the tournament on a high note and give our all until the very last minute,” insists Odemba.

Beyond the result, this WAFCON marks Kenya's return to the continental stage after a decade-long absence. It is an experience the team considers pivotal.

“We learned a lot. We discovered the level of the best African teams, and this will help us come back stronger. Our ambition is to qualify more regularly in the future,” emphasizes the coach.

The Stat of the Day

Algeria will face an East African team for the first time in the competition.